Ls E.

Kristin W.

I was new to Reiki and wasn't sure about what to expect. Ashley was absolutely amazing! She took her time and went through every chakra with excellent communication and attention.

Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

What is Reiki and how does it work?

Reiki is a type of wellness bodywork, often referred to as energy work, that originated in Japan. Reiki practitioners offer this traditional healing technique with the intent of manipulating the flow of energy through the client’s body. Unlike massage, Reiki uses minimal — if any — pressure, focusing on stimulating energy flow rather than working the soft tissue and muscles. This movement of energy is done to improve mental, emotional and physical health. Reiki is touted for its stress relief and ability to ease tension. It can also improve mental clarity, release stress and tension, manage pain, or help with spiritual growth. It is said that Reiki practitioners act as a channel for a universal life force to help support a client’s natural ability to heal. Reiki sessions often last 30 to 90 minutes, with prices varying based on session length, background and experience of the provider, and where you live. Nationally, the average price range for a Reiki session is $60-$80.

Where does Reiki energy come from?

Reiki is a form of bodywork that involves the “laying on of hands” to heal. In Reiki, a client lies down, clothed, and allows the energy worker to pass their hands slowly over their body, sometimes physically touching the body and sometimes hovering above it, to help create healing movement in their energy. This movement of energy is said to help the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

According to the International Association of Reiki Professionals, the practice of Reiki was developed by Dr. Mikao Usui in the early 1900s. The doctor sought to create a healing practice that wasn’t attached to any religion or religious belief so that all people could use it. The healing power of Reiki is said to come from a universal life force, and the Reiki practitioner is like a channel or conduit for the healing energy that is present in all living organisms. The Reiki practitioner can sense energy blockages and help restore flow, which in turn can help create emotional, physical, spiritual or mental wellness.